Book Review: Special Service Lee-Enfields by Ian Skennerton

Published on October 11, 2012
Duration: 2:47

This video reviews Ian Skennerton's 'Special Service Lee-Enfields: The D and Auto Conversions' (Volume 13 of his Small Arms Identification Series). The book, a 47-page pamphlet, details the Del Carbine (a suppressed .45 caliber Enfield conversion) and various semi-auto/full-auto conversions of the Lee-Enfield, including the Charlton, Electrolux Charlton, Ryder, and Howl. It also touches on the Howard Francis carbine, a straight blowback .303 conversion. The book is noted for its low cost and availability.

Quick Summary

Ian Skennerton's 'Special Service Lee-Enfields: The D and Auto Conversions' (Vol. 13) is a 47-page pamphlet detailing specialized Lee-Enfield rifle conversions. It covers the Del Carbine (.45 caliber suppressed) and various semi-auto/full-auto variants like the Charlton, Ryder, and Howl, making it a valuable, inexpensive resource for collectors.

Chapters

  1. 00:15Introduction to Forgotten Weapons Library
  2. 00:22Focus on Charlton Conversions
  3. 00:31Introducing the Book
  4. 00:42Book Details: Vol. 13, Special Service Lee-Enfields
  5. 00:59Del Carbine Coverage
  6. 01:11Auto Conversion Coverage
  7. 01:33Howard Francis Carbine
  8. 01:49Illustrations and Pictures
  9. 01:59Value and Affordability
  10. 02:23Ian Skennerton's Authority
  11. 02:34Final Book Title and Volume

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ian Skennerton's 'Special Service Lee-Enfields' book about?

This book, Volume 13 of his Small Arms Identification Series, focuses on specialized conversions of the Lee-Enfield rifle. It details the Del Carbine, a suppressed .45 caliber variant, and various semi-auto and full-auto conversions like the Charlton, Ryder, and Howl models.

What types of Lee-Enfield conversions are covered in the book?

The book covers the Del Carbine, a .45 caliber suppressed Enfield conversion. It also details semi-auto and full-auto conversions such as the Charlton, Electrolux Charlton, Ryder (South African), and Howl (British). The Howard Francis carbine, a straight blowback pistol-caliber conversion, is also mentioned.

How extensive is the coverage of each conversion type?

The 47-page book dedicates about 23 pages to the Del Carbine. The remaining pages, roughly 15-17, are allocated to the various semi-auto and full-auto conversions of the Lee-Enfield rifle.

Is Ian Skennerton a credible source for information on British small arms?

Yes, Ian Skennerton is widely recognized as a well-known and authoritative name in the field of British Small Arms research. His 'Small Arms Identification Series' is a testament to his expertise.

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